HOOKWORM DISEASE

This disease, once seen only in the southern part of the United States, is leaving its former domains as the migrating population is distributing it more or less widely everywhere. Sandy soil and country districts are infected by a tiny worm which thrives in polluted soil and enters the body through the skin of the feet. It also gets into the body through the drinking water or from the eating of uncooked vegetables, such as are used in salads.

The disease is manifested by "sallow skin, paleness, headache, swollen abdomen and sores on the legs." Little swollen places where the worm enters the skin may be seen on the flesh. The condition yields readily to treatment. If a child is discovered scratching his feet (especially in the southern part of this country), he should be taken at once to a physician.